Common Musk Turtle Sternotherus odoratus

Identification
This small turtle has a dark domed shell and two light stripes on the head. It emits a musky odor when disturbed.

Location
Common statewide

Size
3 to 5 inches

Diet
It feeds on insects snails and carrion.

Habitat
It occurs in ponds lakes and wetlands across Ohio.

Activity Period
April to October

Behavior
It is highly aquatic and spends much time walking along the bottom of water bodies. It is most active in warm months.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring and females lay eggs in early summer.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It has long been common in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It may release musk when handled.

Facts
It is sometimes called the stinkpot due to its odor.

Sources
ODNR NatureServe

Insects snails small aquatic animals | Ponds lakes slow streams wetlands | Statewide